Governor Whitmer responds to data center criticism
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer faced criticism for attending a data center groundbreaking in Saline Township. She defended the project by highlighting union jobs, a closed-loop water system, and its grid independence. Whitmer also stated she would not support legislative proposals for a moratorium on new data center authorizations.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has responded to criticism following her appearance at a data center groundbreaking in Saline Township earlier this week. The event, where Whitmer was photographed alongside tech leaders, generated significant pushback, particularly on social media, making it a prominent story in state politics.
When questioned about the controversy, Governor Whitmer acknowledged public concerns regarding artificial intelligence, job displacement, and environmental impact. She defended the Saline data center project by emphasizing that it mandates good-paying union jobs and incorporates a closed-loop water system to ensure responsible water stewardship. Whitmer also stated that the facility would not draw energy from the power grid, projecting a $300 million benefit to DTE ratepayers in the vicinity. She asserted that Michigan is upholding "Pure Michigan standards" and that other data centers should follow their lead.
Regarding ongoing legislative discussions, the governor addressed proposals in the state legislature that seek to impose a temporary pause on new data center authorizations at both state and local levels. Whitmer explicitly stated that such proposals would not receive her support or signature if they were to reach her desk.